Word Origin & History

nick "notch, groove, slit," late 15c., nyke, of unknown origin, possibly influenced by M.Fr. niche "niche." The verb is first attested 1520s. Sense of "to steal" is from 1869, probably from earlier slang sense of "to catch, take unawares, arrest" (1620s). Nick of time is first attested 1640s, possibly from an old custom of recording time as it passed by making notches on a tally stick, though the general sense of "critical moment" is older (1570s) than the phrase.

Example Sentences for nick

When she saw him, Nick, she had kissed her hand to him over the heads of the courtiers.

"He might have thrown it into the river," again suggested Nick.

Just in the nick of time the English translation of Kenan appeared.

"I haven't the least doubt but what he threw it into the river," added Nick Boomsby.

"That's just what I intend doing, now that we have the game uncovered," said Nick, grimly.

Buckner had taken the package from the counter, Nick had pursued him, and the money was not found.

"I reckon it's for every one with the right stuff in 'em," said Nick.

Nick could not have seen Buckner after the money was stolen, unless he visited him in the lock-up.

Now and then Nick dipped his fingers into the cold water over the gunwale.

No one saw Buckner take the money, according to your evidence, except Nick.